Vacuum mounted carrier for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A carrier system for a vehicle having a pair of vacuum devices shaped and sized to mate and secure to a recreational article. Each vacuum device includes a pad shaped and sized to detachably seat with a vehicle to form a vacuum cavity. The vacuum device includes a plunger attached to the pad and in fluid communication with the vacuum cavity, and an indicator positioned on the plunger to indicate the level of vacuum pressure within the vacuum cavity.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser.No. 14/024,410, filed Sep. 11, 2013, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/699,634 filed Sep. 11, 2012, and isa continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/497,653, filedMar. 22, 2012, which is a 371 of International ApplicationPCT/US2010/049864, filed Sep. 22, 2010, which claims priority to U.S.provisional application number 61/244,769, and is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/713,569, filed Mar. 2, 2007,which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/779,195 filed Mar. 3, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/899,202 filed Feb. 2, 2007, which are hereby incorporated byreference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a system that detachably installs toautomotive vehicles for transporting articles without compromising, butinstead maintaining the integrity of a mounting surface, and moreparticularly, to a carrier system that detachably installs to vehicleswith a vacuum assembly for transporting articles.

Carriers or racks are commonly used with automotive vehicles totransport various recreational equipment, such as, bicycles, skis,snowboards, surfboards, and the like. Conventional carriers are mountedin one of these locations: to the roof, to the trunk, the rear window,to the truck bed, or to a trailer hitch. To withstand the large forceson the carrier and the supported articles while the vehicle is moving,conventional carriers must securely attach to the vehicle. Either thecarrier is permanently attached to the vehicle with fasteners, orremoveably attached to the vehicle using brackets, straps, or latches.However, both methods have disadvantages.

Permanently installed carriers can be expensive to purchase and install,and typically require modifications to the vehicle. In addition, theycannot be removed. Detachable carriers are difficult and time-consumingto install and must be repeatedly installed and removed. Also, they aresusceptible to damaging the vehicle during installation and use due tothe plates and straps applied to the vehicle under tension which causesdenting and scratching. If improperly installed, damage can occur to thevehicle and the articles being transported.

Conventional racks are typically designed for use with a specific makeand model of vehicle. Therefore, they generally do not work on differentvehicles, at least not without adaptors or modifications. As a result,manufacturers must produce an increased number of parts and retailersmust provide an ever increasingly complex list of parts options lists toconsumers, which also increases the cost. In addition, consumers thatpurchase a rack for one vehicle cannot use the same rack for a differentvehicle.

Therefore, a carrier that is easily and reliably installed and removedfrom a multiple vehicles is needed that maintains the integrity of amounting surface.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings which form part of the specification:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a carrier system;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the carrier system of FIG. 1 securing abicycle;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a vacuum device;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a rear wheel mount;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the wheelmount;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a first alternate embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 7 is a plan view of a second alternate embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third alternate embodiment of thecarrier system;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of thecarrier system;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a fifth alternate embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a sixth alternate embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 18 is a front view of locking clip;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the locking clip;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a bicycle secured to a vehicle with alocking system;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the locking clip engaged with a vehiclewindow;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carriersystem;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carriersystem mounted to a vehicle;

FIG. 24 is a upper perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of thecarrier system mounted to a vehicle and securing a recreational article;

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of thecarrier system mounted to a vehicle and securing a recreational article;

FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of thecarrier system mounted to a vehicle and securing a recreational article;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment ofthe attachment member of the carrier system;

FIG. 28 is a rear view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carrier systemmounted to a vehicle and securing a recreational article;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carriersystem case within a case in an open position;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carriersystem case within a case in a closed position;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of the carriersystem mounted to a roof of a vehicle;

FIG. 32 is another perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of thecarrier system mounted to the roof of a vehicle;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of the carriersystem mounted to a side of a vehicle;

FIG. 34 is another perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of thecarrier system mounted to a side of a vehicle;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the carriersystem with an alternate clamping mechanism; and

FIG. 36 is a fourteenth embodiment of the carrier system mounted to avehicle and securing a recreational article with alternate clampingmechanism.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several figures of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates the claimed invention byway of example and not by way of limitation. The description clearlyenables one skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, describesseveral embodiments, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses ofthe disclosure, including what is presently believed to be the best modeof carrying out the claimed invention. Additionally, it is to beunderstood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to thedetails of construction and the arrangements of components set forth inthe following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosureis capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carriedout in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseologyand terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and shouldnot be regarded as limiting.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, an embodiment of the present disclosure,generally referred to as a carrier system 10, includes a frame member12, a mount 14 attached to the frame member 12 that is sized and shapedto couple with recreational articles, and vacuum devices 16 attached tothe frame member 12 that can detachably attach to a mounting surface 17of a vehicle. The carrier system 10 can couple with any recreationalarticle, including, but not limited to, a bicycle, skis, a snowboard, asurfboard, a canoe, or a kayak.

The frame 12 is generally a linear bar 18 with enlarged generallycircular portions 20 at each end that are each sized and shaped to matewith respective vacuum devices 16. (FIG. 3). However, the portions 20can be any shape and size capable of mating with the vacuum device 16.In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the frame 12 mates with two vacuumdevices 16, such as with fasteners 13, to provide enough vacuum strengthto withstand the tensions, shear, and other forces on the carrier system10 during operation. Multiple vacuum devices 16 help stabilize the loadand provide redundancy should one or more vacuum device 16 fail. Asecurity member 22, such as a C-shaped handle, extends from the frame 12so that an attachment member 1500, such as a tether, rope, cord, cable,or other member, along with a lock 1502, can attach between the securitymember 22 and the vehicle, preferably with a security clip 1504, whichis described in more detail below. (FIGS. 18-21). When secured to thevehicle, the security member 22 acts as a theft deterrent. Preferably,the frame 12 is constructed from a material capable of handling theloads and tensions occurring during operation of the carrier system,such as metal, fiberglass, plastic, or other suitable materials.

The mount 14 includes an attachment member 24 that attaches to the outerface 26 of the frame 12, such as by welding, adhesive, fasteners, orother appropriate means (FIGS. 1-2). Extending from the attachmentmember 24 is a skewer assembly 28 sized and shaped to couple with frontor rear fork arms 35 of a bicycle 37. The skewer assembly 28 includes agenerally tubular housing 30 that defines a bore 32 along a center axisA-A. (FIG. 1). Generally cylindrical protrusions 34 extend outwardlyfrom each end of the housing 30 along the axis A-A. The protrusions 34are shaped and sized to mate with the front clevises 36 of the forkarms, which first requires removal of the wheel. To secure the fork arms35 to the skewer assembly 28, a skewer rod 36 inserts through the bore32 and secures with a fasteners, such as a nut 38 and a cam clamp 40.The cam clamp 40 can be tightened or loosened to secure and release thefork. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the mount 14 caninclude any other suitable arrangement that properly secures arecreational article, such as, straps, fasteners, clamps, cables,brackets, tethers, and the like. In addition, the mount 14 can includeadaptors that accommodate various fork sizes and models, such as “ForkUp” available from Hurricane Components for 15 mm or 20 mm through-axlemodels. Also, the rear wheel of the bicycle 37 can be cradled in therack instead of the front fork so that the front wheel does not need tobe removed.

The vacuum devices 16 are similar to the device disclosed in U.S. patentpublication No. 2007/0216154, which is hereby incorporated by reference.Each vacuum device 16 includes a vacuum pad 42 and an attached vacuumpump 44 (FIG. 3). A housing 46 attaches to the vacuum pad 42 to encloseand secure the vacuum pump 44 to the vacuum pad 42. The housing is 46shaped and sized to enclose the vacuum pump 44 while allowing for theattachment of an accessory and likewise to a surface of a vehicle.

The vacuum pad 42 is generally a conical frustum that defines a top face48 having threaded holes 50 to mount with the housing 46 using fasteners52. The vacuum pad 42 also includes a recessed vacuum face 54 beinggenerally parallel to the top face 48, a sloped side surface 56extending between the top face 48 and the vacuum face 54, and agenerally circumferential seating edge 58 along the perimeter of thevacuum face 54. In this arrangement, the seating edge 58 can seat withthe mounting surface 17 of a vehicle to form a vacuum cavity 60. Thevacuum pad 42 defines a channel 62 extending from the top face 48 to thevacuum face 54 and sized to mate with the vacuum pump 44. Release tabs64 extend outwardly from the side surface 56. The release tabs 64 aregenerally t-shaped ribs that are shaped and sized to enhance rigidity ofthe pad 42 and help prevent release of the vacuum device 16 from themounting surface 17, such as during exposure to warmer temperatures.

Preferably, the pad 42 is made from a flexible material, such as,rubber, or plastic. However, the pad 42 can comprise any material thatallows the vacuum pad 42 to seat with the mounting surface 17.Preferably, the material should not be prone to scuffing the mountingsurface during installation or operation. In addition, the material cancomprise any suitable color and may include other desirable attributes.For example, the pad 42 can be a reflective or glow-in-the-dark materialso that it can be seen in dark environments.

The pump 44 includes a generally cylindrical plunger 66 and a hollowcylinder 68 that defines a chamber 70 sized and shaped to receive theplunger 66. The plunger 66 moves within the chamber 70 between a pressedposition and a released position to create the vacuum cavity 60 betweenthe vacuum face 54 and the mounting surface 17. The cylinder 68 has anopening to the chamber 70 at one end and is closed at the opposite end.A tube 72 extends generally perpendicularly from the closed end of thecylinder 68. The tube 72 is sized and shaped to insert into the channel62 of the vacuum pad 42 to provide fluid communication between thecylinder chamber 70 and the vacuum cavity 60. The plunger 66 is sized toinsert into the cylinder 68 with a sliding fit that allows the plunger66 to move back and forth within the cylinder 68. A check valve 74 ispositioned within the cylinder chamber 70 in communication with thechamber 70 and the tube 72 so that fluids and gases can only transferinto the tube 72 from outside of the cylinder 68. This allows the vacuumdevice 16 to be re-pumped without loss of remaining vacuum. In analternate embodiment, an automatic pump can be used to increase thevacuum level of the vacuum device if it falls below a pre-determinedlevel. In another alternate embodiment, a vacuum device includes asignaling component capable of indicating or sending a signal thatindicates a loss of a designated amount of pressure, including, but notlimited to, an audio signal, a visual signal, an electronic signal, or awireless or Bluetooth® signal. For instance, a the signaling componentcan send a wireless signal to a wireless phone and, in conjunction withappropriate software on the phone, indicate the vacuum pressure.

The plunger 66 is generally a rod with a push button 76 at one end, aseal 78 at the opposite end, and a biasing member 80 therebetween. Theseal 78 is sized and shaped to seat against the inner wall of thecylinder 68. When the plunger 66 inserts into the cylinder chamber 70,the biasing member 80 biases the plunger 66 to the released position.The position of the plunger 66 in the released position will varyrespective to the amount of vacuum pressure within the vacuum cavity 60.

An indicator 82 positioned about the lower portion of the push button 76indicates to the operator the relative amount of vacuum pressure withinthe vacuum cavity 60. The indicator 82 is a colored ring or sleeve sizedand shaped to attach around the lower portion of the push button 76. Theindicator 82 can be red, yellow or any color that is easily seen.Additionally, the indicator 82 can be a reflective or glow-in-the-darkmaterial so that it can be seen in dark atmospheres and under water.When no vacuum pressure exists in the vacuum cavity 60, the biasingmember 80 extends the plunger 66 to its most extended release position.In this position, the indicator 82 is fully visible. As the pressureincreases in the vacuum cavity 60, the force of the vacuum lessens thebias of the biasing member 80, and, in turn, the plunger 66 extends lessfrom the chamber 70 and less of the indicator 82 is visible.

The housing 46 is a generally cylindrical member with a generallyrectangular base which includes a top surface 84, bottom surface 86,first side 88, second side 90, third side 92, and pump side 94 (FIG. 3).The bottom surface 86 of the housing 46 defines housing apertures 96 forattachment to the vacuum pad 42 with fasteners. The top surface 84defines attachment apertures 98 for attachment of accessories withappropriate means, such as fasteners, straps, and other suitablemembers. Although, housing apertures 96 and attachment apertures 98 areshown on top side 84 of housing 46, those skilled in the art willrecognize that housing apertures 96 and attachment apertures 98 can belocated on any side 88, 90, 92, 94 of the housing 46. Also, the housingapertures 96 and attachment apertures 98 can be holes, slots, or anyother configuration sized and shaped to accommodate different dimensionsof various manufacturers' accessories. The housing 46 can be made from avariety of materials, including marine grade stainless steel,powder-coated aluminum, rubber or plastic.

In operation, an operator places the vacuum face 54 of pad 42 against amounting surface 17 of a vehicle, which creates a vacuum cavity 60between the vacuum face 54 of the pad 42 and mounting surface 17. Thisembodiment is preferably used with a pick up truck, with the mountingsurface comprising the rear window of the truck. The operator repeatedlypushes the plunger 44 from the released position to the pressed positionto remove fluid (air, gas, and/or water) from the vacuum cavity 60,thereby, reducing the pressure below the pressure the surroundingatmospheric pressure. This creates a vacuum such that edge 58 and vacuumface 54 of pad 42 seat against the mounting surface 17. A vacuum existswhenever the pressure within the space is less than the pressure thatsurrounds it. To obtain an adequate vacuum for operation, the operatorshould repeatedly press the plunger 66 until the indicator 82 is nolonger visible when the plunger 66 is in the released position. If atany time during operation, the indicator 82 becomes visible indicating aloss of vacuum, the operator can again repeatedly push the plunger 66until the indicator 82 is no longer visible.

Once the carrier system 10 is attached to a mounting surface of avehicle, a recreational device, such as a bicycle can be attached to themount 14. In FIGS. 1-3, the clevises of the fork arms 35 mate with theprotrusions 34 and are secured by inserting and tightening a skewer rod36. In this position, the rear bicycle wheel rests on the truck bed.When desired, the skewer rod 36 is loosened and the bicycle 37 can beremoved.

To release the vacuum and remove the carrier system 10, the operatorlifts the release tabs 64 on the side face 56 of pad 42 away from themounting surface 17. In other embodiments, a valve stem can be activatedto release the vacuum device 16. Additionally, a twist button with acourse thread located on the top face of the pad 42 can be used torelease the vacuum device 16.

As shown in FIG. 4, the carrier system 10 can also include a rear wheelmount 91 for securing the rear wheel of a bicycle 37 while the front ofthe bicycle 37 is secured to the mount 14. The rear wheel mount 91 is avacuum device 16 that includes a securing strap 93, such as a hook andloop material strap, for securing the rear wheel of the bicycle 37. Useof the rear wheel mount 91 enhances the securement of the bicycle 37 tomount 14 and prevents the rear wheel of the bicycle 37 from contactingthe vehicle.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the rear wheel mount 91,which includes a pair of vacuum devices 16 mounted to a support member95. A pair of securing straps 93, such as a hook and loop materialstrap, extend from the support member 95 for securing the rear wheel ofthe bicycle 37. Use of the rear wheel mount 91 enhances the securementof up to two bicycles 37 to mounts 14 and prevents the rear wheel of thebicycles from contacting the vehicle.

The carrier system 10 can also be embodied in the various forms of FIGS.6-20.

For ease of understanding, components common between the alternateembodiments are identified with similar reference numbers, except thereference numbers in the second embodiment include a “100” prefix. Forexample, the frame of the first embodiment is identified as 12, while asecond embodiment with a similar frame is identified as 112. Naturally,any new components are identified with unique reference numbers.

In the first alternate embodiment of FIG. 6, the carrier system 110 issimilar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. However, the frame 112 has alonger linear bar 118 to accommodate the attachment of a mount 114 toeach circular portion 120 with fasteners 113. Each circular portion 120defines arcuate slots 115 shaped and sized to receive the fasteners 113and provide for attachment of the mounts 114 at a range of angularpositions. The mounts 114 should be spaced at an appropriate distancefrom each other to accommodate the securement of recreational articlesto respective mounts. In this way, the carrier 110 can secure tworecreational articles within the bed of a pick-up truck.

In the second alternate embodiment of FIG. 7, the carrier system 210 issimilar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. However, the frame 212 isgenerally V-shaped having two linear bars 218 extending between threegenerally enlarged circular portions 220. A vacuum device 216 isattached at each circular portion 220 and a mount 214 is located on theopposite face of each circular portion 220. In this way, the carrier 210can secure three recreational articles within the bed of a pick-uptruck.

In the third alternate embodiment of FIG. 8, the carrier system 310includes a frame 312 that is generally V-shaped having two linear bars318 extending between three generally rectangular portions 320. Thelinear bars 318 define slits 317 to enhance the flexibility of the frame312, which allows the frame 312 to bend to accommodate the curvature ofthe vehicle. A mount 314 is attached, such as with fasteners 313, to anouter surface of each rectangular portion 320. A vacuum device 316 isattached to the inner surface of the two outer rectangular portions 320.Two more vacuum devices 316 are attached, such as with fasteners 313, tothe inner surface of respective linear bars 318. In this way, thecarrier 310 can secure up to three recreational articles preferably to arear window or trunk of a vehicle.

In the fourth alternate embodiment of FIG. 9, the carrier system 410includes a frame 412 having three generally rectangular portions 420arranged in a generally linear pattern. The rectangular portions 420 areconnected by a segments 421 that define slits 417 to enhance theflexibility of the frame 412, which allows the frame 412 to bend toaccommodate the curvature of the vehicle. A mount 414 is attached, suchas with fasteners 413, to an outer surface of the center rectangularportion 420. A vacuum device 416 is attached to the inner surface of theeach rectangular portion 420. In this way, the carrier 410 can secure arecreational article preferably to a rear window or trunk of a vehicle.

In the fifth alternate embodiment of FIG. 10, the carrier system 510 issimilar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. However, the frame 512 has asecond linear bar 523 extending generally downward and preferably at anangle of about 10° relative to the first linear bar 518, and terminatingin a generally circular portion 520. Slits 517 are defined at aboutequally spaced locations along the frame 512 to enhance the flexibilityof the frame 512, which allows the frame to bend to accommodate thecurvature of the vehicle roof. In this way, the carrier 410 can secure arecreational article preferably to a rear window or trunk of a vehicle,preferably, with the two upper vacuum devices 116 secured on the roofand the lower vacuum device 116 secured to the front windshield in viewof the driver for monitoring of the vacuum pressure.

In the sixth alternate embodiment of FIG. 11, the carrier system 610 issimilar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. However, the frame 612 is agenerally wing-shaped plate. A plurality of vacuum devices 616, six areshown in FIG. 11, are attached, such as with fasteners 613, along thelength of the frame 612 so that the carrier system 610 can attach to theroof of a vehicle. The frame 612 defines arcuate slots 615 shaped andsized to receive the fasteners 613 and provide for attachment of themounts 614 at a range of angular positions. Three mounts 614 areattached to the plate in a generally triangular arrangement toaccommodate three bicycles. Three rear wheel mounts 91 are individuallyattached to the roof of a vehicle at a location to allow each rear wheelmount 91 to secure respective rear tires of each bicycle 637. In thisway, the carrier 610 can secure three recreational articles preferablyon the roof of a vehicle. Slits 617 are defined at about equally spacedlocations along the frame 612 to enhance the flexibility of the frame612, which allows the frame to bend to accommodate the curvature of thevehicle roof. The frame 612 can include a hinge to allow the frame tofold in half. If desired, the frame 612 is large enough to accommodateadditional devices, such as, additional mounts, a front wheel holder, orattachments for other devices.

In the seventh alternate embodiment of FIG. 12, the frame 712 includes agenerally triangular shaped portion 741 with a rearwardly extendingladder shaped portion 743. The ladder shaped portion 743 is angularlyadjustable relative to the triangular shaped portion 741 to accommodatefor different arrangements of vehicles and windshields. Theladder-shaped portion has two side members 745 connected by a pluralityof crossbars 751. Cradle members 753 are attached along the lowerportion 755 of each side member 745. Each cradle member 753 definesrecesses 757 that are sized and shaped to receive the frame of arecreational article, such as a bicycle. Each recess 757 is positionedslightly forwardly and above of corresponding crossbar 751. Thisarrangement allows the operator to secure the frame of the bicycle to arespective crossbar 751 using a strap, tether or other securing member.In other words, the crossbars 751 are positioned to the rear and belowof the each recess 757 so that the strap or other securing member pullsthe bicycle into the deepest section of the recess 757. In this way, thecarrier 710 can secure up to three recreational articles preferably to arear window or trunk of a vehicle.

In the eighth alternate embodiment of FIG. 13, the frame 812 isgenerally ladder-shaped having two side members 845 connected by aplurality of crossbars 851. Vacuum devices 816 are attached at the upperportion of the frame 812 at each intersection of the side members 845and crossbars 854 for attachment to the rear of a vehicle. Cradlemembers 853 are attached along the lower portion of each side member845. Each cradle member 853 defines recesses 857 that are sized andshaped to receive the frame of a recreational article, such as abicycle. Each recess 857 is positioned slightly forwardly and above ofcorresponding crossbar 851. This arrangement allows the operator tosecure the frame of the bicycle to a respective crossbar 851 using astrap, tether or other securing member. In other words, the crossbars851 are positioned to the rear and below of the each recess 857 so thatthe strap or other securing member pulls the bicycle into the deepestsection of the recess 857. In this way, the carrier 810 can secure up tothree recreational articles preferably to a trunk of a vehicle. Ifdesired, the carrier 810 can include a telescoping support bar thatextends from one of the crossbars 854 to the bumper of the vehicle.

In the ninth alternate embodiment of FIG. 14, a ball mount 961 extendsgenerally perpendicularly from the top of the vacuum device 916. Asocket member 963 adjustably attaches to the ball mount 961 with afastener 913 that allows rotational adjustment between the ball mount961 and the socket member 963. A second vacuum device 916 attaches tothe socket mount 963 for attachment to an electronic device, such as anIpad®. In operation, the carrier 910 can secure an electronic devicepreferably to a dashboard of a vehicle.

In the tenth alternate embodiment of FIG. 15, the carrier 1010 includesa bracket 1068 for attachment to a mount 14 for the vacuum device 1016,and a roller 1070 pivotally mounted to the bracket 1068. The roller 1072is shaped and sized to seat against a kayak, canoe, or other vessel,such as an hourglass shape. In this way, the carrier 1010 can secure arecreational article preferably to a roof a vehicle.

In the eleventh alternate embodiment of FIG. 16, the carrier 1110includes a bracket 1112 for attachment to a mount 1114 for the vacuumdevice 1116, and a support 1170 mounted to the bracket 1112. The support1172 is generally V-shaped for seating against a kayak, canoe, or othervessel, such as an hourglass shape. In this way, the carrier 1010 cansecure a recreational article preferably to a roof a vehicle.

In the twelfth alternate embodiment of FIG. 17, the carrier system 1200is similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. However, the mount 1214 is anL-shaped tube with a clamp 1215 positioned at the top end for engaging arecreational article. The mount 1214 is vertically adjustable. In thisway, the carrier 1210 can secure a recreational article preferably to arear window or trunk of a vehicle. In addition, the carrier system 1200could also be used independently from a vehicle as a stand-aloneworkstand for a recreational article.

In the thirteenth alternate embodiment of FIG. 22, the carrier 1310includes a support 1312 for attachment to a mount 1314 for the vacuumdevice 1316, and a support 1370 mounted to the bracket 1312. The support1372 is shaped and sized to seat against a surfboard or other article.In this way, the carrier 1010 can secure a recreational articlepreferably to a roof a vehicle.

As mentioned above, the carrier system 10 can include components fordeterring theft of the carrier itself and any secured bicycles (FIGS.18-21). A security clip 1504 is shaped and sized for engagement with avehicle window 1506 or a vehicle door seam 1508. As shown in FIGS.18-19, is a bracket having a generally U-shaped segment 1510 defining arecess 1512 sized and shaped to receive a vehicle window 1506 or avehicle seam 1508, an internal tongue 1514 extending generallyperpendicularly from the U-shaped segment, and an opposed externaltongue 1516 extending generally perpendicularly from the U-shapedsegment 1510. A bumper 1518 attaches to an extended portion of theU-shaped segment 1510. When installed, the recess 1512 receives thevehicle window 1506 so that the bumper seats against the outer surfaceof the window 1506 and the external tongue 1516 extends outwardly fromthe window 1506. An attachment member 1500, such as a tether, rope,cord, cable, or other member, along with a lock 1502, can attach betweena hole 1518 defined by the external tongue 1516 and the recreationalarticle, such as with a buckle or hook and loop device. If desired, anynumber of security clips 1504, attachment members 1500, and locks 1502can be used for added security.

In the fourteenth alternate embodiment of FIGS. 23-29, the carrier 1610is a compact arrangement that can be disassembled and stored within acase 1611 for storage and transport. The carrier 1610 and case 1611 aresmall enough for a user to carry or transport within a small bag orbackpack.

The carrier 1610 includes a pair of vacuum devices 16 that canremoveably attach to a mounting surface 17 of a vehicle. A generallyannular clamp 1612 removeably attaches to each vacuum device 16 with afastener 1615, such as a threaded bolt that mates with a female threadedinsert 1614 of the vacuum device 16. The clamp 1612 includes a generallyC-shaped lower portion 1616 and a corresponding generally C-shaped upperportion 1618 that defines a hole 1620 sized and shaped to receive arecreational article, such as a bicycle handlebar. However, the hole1620 can be sized and shaped to receive other parts of the recreationalarticle. For example, the clamp can be circular, square, oblong, orother shape. The upper portion 1618 is pivotally attached about A-A atone end to the corresponding end of the lower portion 1616. The oppositeends of the upper portion 1618 and lower portion 1616 definecorresponding tabs 1622 and holes 1624, which align to form a continuousbore sized and shaped to receive a security fastener 1626, such as aclevis fastener. In this way, the upper portion 1618 and lower portion1616 can pivot between an open position to receive the recreationalarticle and a closed position to secure the recreational article. Whenthe recreational article is secured by the clamp 1612, the securityfastener 1626 inserts into the aligned bores to secure the assembly. Inanother embodiment, the clamp is unitary and does not pivot between anopen and closed position. Preferably, the clamp 1612 is constructed froma material capable of handling the loads and tensions occurring duringoperation of the carrier system, such as metal, fiberglass, plastic, orother suitable materials.

In an alternate embodiment, the annular clamp 1612 can be replaced withany suitable clamping mechanism, preferably a releasable self-lockingtie down 1615 (FIGS. 36-37), but also ratchet straps, buckles, cambuckle, over-center buckle, winch, zip tie, self-locking, and the like.In addition, the vacuum device 16 can define a channel 1613 forreceiving the recreational article.

An attachment member 1500, such as a tether, rope, cord, cable, or othermember, attaches to a security clip 1504 attached at each end, such aswith a buckle 1505 or hook and loop device. Each security clip 1504secures to the vehicle, such as in a vehicle seam, and the attachmentmember 1500 extends securely through the bicycle, such as through theframe, to prevent removal or theft. When secured to the vehicle, theattachment member 1500 acts as a theft deterrent.

The carrier 1610 can be disassembled by removing each clamp 1612 fromthe respective vacuum device 16. The generally oblong case 1611 isshaped and sized to receive the dissembled carrier 1610 for storage andtransport. The case 1611 includes a first half 1630 pivotally attachedto a second half 1632 along a spine 1634 so that it moves from an openposition to receive the carrier 1610 and a closed position to secure thecarrier 1610 within the case 1611. A suitable fastener, such as azipper, secures the case 1611 in the closed position. The case 1611 canbe made from any suitable material, including, but not limited to,natural or man-made materials, metal, polymer, rubber, or fabric. Inaddition, the case 1611 can include padding material to protect thecarrier 1610 from damage. An alternate embodiment of the case canreceive the carrier while still assembled for storage and transport.

The case 1611 can also receive additional accessories or parts. Forexample, the case 1611 can be configured to receive the carrier 1610 anda connector 1716 for use as a vacuum mount system. The connector 1716joins the vacuum devices 1714 for securement between a portableelectronic device 1700 and a mounting surface 1702, similar thatdescribed in International Application PCT/US2012/33803, herebyincorporated by reference. The connector 1716 is a flexible arm having afastener 1722 at each end, preferably a ¼-20 male insert, however, otherfasteners can also be used. For example, a magnetic fastener can beused. The connector 1716 is preferably made of steel and is encased inplastic, such as those readily available in the marketplace. However,any suitable flexible support arm can be used. The fasteners 1722 attachto vacuum devices 1714, such as with ¼-20 female inserts.

In operation, the user removes the carrier 1610 from the case 1611 andassembles the carrier 1610 by attaching the clamps 1612 to respectivevacuum devices 16. In operation, an operator places the vacuum face 54of pad 42 against a mounting surface 17 of a vehicle, which creates avacuum cavity 60 between the vacuum face 54 of the pad 42 and mountingsurface 17. Preferably, the vacuum devices 16 are positioned so that theindicators 82 are in visible by the driver or passenger of the vehicle.FIGS. 24-29 shows the carrier 1610 used with a car, with the mountingsurface 17 comprising the rear window of the car. The operatorrepeatedly pushes the plunger 44 from the released position to thepressed position to remove fluid (air, gas, and/or water) from thevacuum cavity 60, thereby, reducing the pressure below the pressure thesurrounding atmospheric pressure. This creates a vacuum such that edge58 and vacuum face 54 of pad 42 seat against the mounting surface 17. Avacuum exists whenever the pressure within the space is less than thepressure that surrounds it. To obtain an adequate vacuum for operation,the operator should repeatedly press the plunger 66 until the indicator82 is no longer visible when the plunger 66 is in the released position.If at any time during operation, the indicator 82 becomes visibleindicating a loss of vacuum, the operator can again repeatedly push theplunger 66 until the indicator 82 is no longer visible.

Once the carrier system 1610 is attached to a mounting surface of avehicle, the handlebar of a recreational device, such as a bicycle canbe inserted into each clamp 1612 and secured with fasteners 1626. Inthis position, the bicycle seat rests against the car. The security clip1504 of the attachment member 1500, secures to the vehicle, such as in avehicle seam, and the attachment member 1500 extends securely throughthe bicycle, such as through the frame, to prevent removal or theft.

When desired, the fastener 1626 is removed and the bicycle 37 can beremoved from the clamps 1612. To release the vacuum and remove thecarrier system 1610, the operator lifts the release tabs 64 on the sideface 56 of pad 42 away from the mounting surface 17. In otherembodiments, a valve stem can be activated to release the vacuum device16. Additionally, a twist button with a course thread located on the topface of the pad 42 can be used to release the vacuum device 16.

In the fifteenth alternate embodiment of FIGS. 32-35, the carrier 1810includes one or more of the above described embodiments to removeablyattach to a mounting surface 17 of a vehicle 18. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 32-35, the recreational article is secured to the side of thevehicle 18 with the fifth alternate embodiment of the carrier system 510(FIG. 10) secured to the front of the article, and with the rear wheelmount 91 (FIG. 4) attached to the rear of the article. The front wheel1820 is removed from the article and mounted to the side of the vehiclewith an alternate embodiment of the wheel mount 1830. The wheel mount1830 includes a pair of vacuum devices 16 mounted to a generallyU-shaped frame 1840. The ends of the frame define clevises 1850configured to secure a skewer rod 1860 of the front wheel 1820. Theskewer rod 1860 can be tightened or loosened to secure and release thewheel 1820.

In all of the embodiments, the frames are preferably made from alightweight metal, such as aluminum. However, any suitable material canbe used, including, but not limited to, steel, plastic, or compositematerial. Alternatively, the frame can be composed of a flexiblematerial, such as Starboard® polymer material or other plastic, whicheliminates the need for slits.

Changes can be made in the above constructions without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained inthe above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A carrier system for a vehicle, comprising: amount being shaped and sized to mate and secure a recreational article;and a vacuum device having a pad shaped and sized to removeably seatwith a vehicle to form a vacuum cavity, a plunger attached to the padand in fluid communication with the vacuum cavity, and an indicatorpositioned on the plunger to indicate the level of vacuum pressurewithin the vacuum cavity.
 2. The carrier system of claim 1, furthercomprising a case sized and shaped to receive the first vacuum device,the second vacuum device, and the connector when disassembled.
 3. Thecarrier system of claim 1, wherein the mount comprises a releasableself-locking mechanism.
 4. The carrier system of claim 1, wherein themount comprises an releasable generally annular clamp.